Statue of Alabama football coach Nick Saban to be unveiled A-Day

Alabama Coach Nick Saban directs the defensive backs during the second spring football practice session in Tuscaloosa, Ala., Wednesday, March 23, 2011. (The Birmingham News/Mark Almond)

TUSCALOOSA -- A statue of Nick Saban will be unveiled at approximately 12:40 p.m. on A-Day outside of Bryant-Denny Stadium along the Walk of Champions, Alabama announced Friday afternoon.

It will be the fifth statue joining national championship coaches Wallace Wade, Frank Thomas, Paul Bryant and Gene Stallings. Plaques will honor players and staff members of the national championship teams.

"In keeping with our custom of honoring our national championship head football coaches, we are pleased and proud to unveil the statue of Coach Saban to add to our Walk of Champions at Bryant-Denny Stadium," Alabama athletic director Mal Moore said in a statement. "By leading our team to Alabama's 13th football championship in 2009, Coach Saban earned his place among the legends we recognize. This is an outstanding testament to his work at Alabama, and a fitting tribute to the accomplishments of our entire football program under his leadership."

Former Alabama coach Gene Stallings will be involved in the dedication as well as representatives from the families of the other coaches.

The unveiling is in addition to captains being honored at Denny Chimes at 12:15 p.m., and the team's typical walk into the stadium prior to kickoff.

Alabama has invited members of the 2009 national championship to join the ceremony.